BIS Releases Standards for Assistive Technologies Under NLEAP

BIS Releases Standards for Assistive Technologies Under NLEAP

Why in the News ?

The Bureau of Indian Standards has issued new standards for assistive technologies under the NLEAP initiative, aiming to improve accessibility, safety, and quality of devices for persons with disabilities and strengthen India’s inclusive healthcare framework.

New Standards for Assistive Technologies:

  • BIS released standards for key mobility and accessibility devices.
  • Includes elbow crutches, walking sticks, and multi-legged walking aids.
  • Covers accessible design standards such as:

○ Tactile guide maps for visually impaired persons

○ Braille signage on equipment and appliances

○ Portable ramps for barrier-free access

  • Standards ensure uniform specifications for design, usage, and performance while incorporating environmental jurisprudence principles.
  • Focus on enhancing usability and inclusivity in public and private spaces.
  • Supports wider adoption of assistive technologies across India without requiring post facto approvals.
  • Manufacturing processes align with the polluter pays principle and environmental democracy values.

Objectives and Implementation under NLEAP

  • Initiative guided by the Indian Council of Medical Research through the National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP).
  • Aims to provide a framework for policymakers, healthcare providers, and manufacturers.
  • Promotes standardisation and quality assurance in assistive devices following established environmental and safety protocols.
  • Encourages domestic innovation and manufacturing in assistive technology sector with proper regulatory clearances.
  • Ensures devices meet criteria of:

○ Safety and ergonomics

○ Performance and durability

○ Proper labelling and user information

○ Environmental compliance standards

  • Facilitates affordable and accessible assistive products for beneficiaries.
  • Standards development process incorporates lessons from environmental jurisprudence including the Vanashakti judgment principles on regulatory compliance.

Key Disability Inclusion & Policies :

  • Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act):

○ Expands categories of disabilities and mandates equal opportunities and accessibility.

  • Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan):

○ Focuses on barrier-free infrastructure and transport systems.

○ Ensures compliance with environmental and accessibility norms without ex-post facto approvals.

  • Assistive Technologies: Devices aiding individuals with disabilities in mobility, communication, and daily functioning.
  • Role of BIS:

○ Establishes quality and safety standards across sectors.

○ Integrates principles from Forest Conservation Act and environmental regulations where applicable.

  • Importance:

○ Promotes inclusive development and social justice

○ Enhances independence and dignity of persons with disabilities

○ Supports environmental democracy and sustainable manufacturing practices

○ Upholds the precautionary principle in product safety and environmental protection